The Kremlin has reacted to reports from the Financial Times suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is preparing to announce a roadmap for a presidential election and a referendum regarding a peace deal with Russia on February 24. Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Kremlin, remarked that it is 'too early to talk about it,' indicating skepticism regarding the reliability of such reports. Peskov pointed out that mixed messages are circulating in the media, with contradictory claims about the readiness for elections in Ukraine.

Peskov further emphasized the necessity for careful monitoring of the evolving situation, suggesting that the Kremlin is attentive to the political discourse emanating from Kyiv. The comments reflect a cautious approach from the Russian government, which is likely trying to gauge the intentions of the Ukrainian leadership amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The notion of elections and a referendum in Ukraine touches on broader discussions about the country's political future, especially in the context of its conflict with Russia.

As the date of February 24 approaches, which marks the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the speculation surrounding elections raises significant questions about the democratic processes in Ukraine during wartime and the implications for peace negotiations with Russia. The Kremlin's dismissive stance towards initial media reports could signal an attempt to control narratives regarding Ukraine's political maneuvers, highlighting the sensitive nature of public sentiment and media reporting both within Russia and Ukraine.